Dentists emphasize proper diet and oral hygiene to help prevent disease, infection, and tooth loss. A tooth extraction may be necessary for any number of reasons, but are typically a last resort for dentists. While teeth aren’t meant to be removed, they may lose their ability to function properly and cause more harm than good. Extractions may be the best option to help get rid of disease or infection which can lead to better overall health. It often seems that toothaches or problems happen at the most inopportune time. One of our number one priorities is making sure we are available to get people out of pain or quickly refer you to a specialist if the need arises.
If you have a toothache or a decaying tooth, then extraction may be the best option. Thankfully, Dr. Jimmy and the Downtown Dental team are skilled and familiar with this process. Below, we’ll outline the signs that indicate the need for tooth extraction and when we would determine a tooth extraction necessary.
Signs You Need a Tooth Extraction
A toothache does not always mean that a tooth extraction is needed, but there are common signs associated with toothaches that may mean that a tooth may need to be extracted. Some of those signs include:
- Severe tooth pain
- Facial Swelling or abscess
- Pain worsening with pressure and chewing
- Stiffness or pain in the jaw
- Swollen gums, indicating the presence of gum disease
Extractions should only occur either in medical emergencies or after thorough examinations of your oral health. At Downtown Dental, we perform simple and surgical tooth extractions, and work closely with our local specialists in cases of severely compromised or impact teeth.
At our office, there can be several reasons why we’d recommend a tooth extraction, including:
Tooth Damage
Any tooth trauma caused by either accidents or disease can chip, break, and lead to decay over time. In severe cases, the tooth cannot be saved through restorative methods and root canal treatments, hence the need for a tooth extraction.
Disease or Infection
The progressions of lesions and the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth can cause diseases, such as gum disease, infections, and cavities. While these diseases can be normally treated with root canals and antibiotics, severe infections and signs of decay can result in the need for an extraction.
Overcrowding and Impact
Wisdom teeth are the most common need for extractions due to how they can overcrowd the mouth. Wisdom teeth often turn at odd angles and cause problems with chewing and with the ability to maintain proper oral hygiene. In some cases, wisdom teeth will need to be extracted for orthodontic work, such as braces and aligners.
If you experience any problems with your teeth, our team will be able to help you. Dr. Jimmy at Downtown Dental aims to preserve your natural teeth through restorative methods focusing on your health and well being first. As a general family practice, we are committed to ensuring that your teeth stay healthy. Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about our dental services!
